Something has caused the breakers to disappear from Europe's
most famous surfing beach. The Basque Wave, which may reach
upwards of 20 feet as it breaks, has been reduced to little
more than a ripple.
Scientists are unable to explain the disappearance of the
wave, which was discovered by surfer Craig Sage about 20
years ago. The Basque Wave was famous for sweeping in from
far out at sea, and offered the most exciting surfing
experience in Europe.
The wave may have been affected by offshore dredging or by
changing sand bars, but its sudden disappearance suggests
that changes in ocean currents or the structure of the sea
floor could also be responsible.
There has been no earthquake activity along the midatlantic
ridge that would explain the change, and no know volcanic
activity in the region. A general upwelling of the sea floor
off the Spanish coast might stop the wave, but no such
phenomenon has as yet been detected. A change in the
strength of currents in the area could also be responsible.
The Gulf Stream, which flows far to the north of the wave
area, is responsible for a powerful current that sweeps
southward as the stream impacts the British and Irish
coasts. If this has stopped or significantly weakened, it
would also affect the Basque Wave.
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